shoes: Anne Klein 'Sandya'

Many times when I try a pattern for the first time, I like to use less expensive fabric just to make sure I like the fit and style.  In this case, I lucked out with a one yard remnant of suiting fabric that was just enough to make the shorter skirt from Simplicity 5259.  It was originally $5.99 per yard, but the remnants were marked 50% off.  I bought a zipper with a coupon, got the pattern during one of those 99¢ sales and used thread I already had.  So, I now have a fabulous work-appropriate skirt for about $5.  :D

I also eliminated the waist line facings and instead used bias tape to finish the edge, tacking the thin facing down at the seams and darts.

click image to enlarge

I also added top-stitching over the front slit to keep the facings in place.

This is an excellent "I have nothing to wear" pattern that you could whip up in a few hours.  In fact, I made it today and wore it tonight.  :D  I am sure to make many of these in the future.